The 9 Best Nature & Parks in Cherry Valley, Illinois (IL)

951 acres total; 80 acres of prairie restorations. The District's largest contiguous tract of forest, home to many birds that require large tracts of forest for their survivial (hooded warbler, acadian flycatcher, broad-winged hawk and veery). Provides a wealth of fishing and hiking activities. Equestrian trails are provided and accessible from the adjacent Espenscheid Forest Preserve. Traditional picnic facilities. State's highly ranked Kishwaukee River runs through the property.

One of the newest forest preserves, this 593-acre trat provides lots of open grass and prarie areas with wooded sections along the Kishwaukee River. Fifteen acres ow mowed space are perfect for games, picnics, etc. Deer Run also includes a trailhead for hiking and equestrian trails that wind through and connect with Oakridge Forest Preserve. Great spot for fishing and bird watching. Picnic area with grill, toilets and a well are convenient to parking area. Many diverse habitats. Spring and fall is a perfect time to view migrating birds . 9.5 miles of trails will challenge any hiker's endurance.

This scenic forest preserve boasts beautiful views of the Kishwaukee River, lovely old oak groves and restored prairie. Near the entance is a large parking lot to accommodate canoe and equestrian trailers. Oakridge is considered the equestrian center for the entire county,, offering 5.5 miles of trails that connect to nine miles of equestrian trails in Deer Run Forest Preserve. Canoe access near the entrance. 160 acres of priairie, 100 acres of sedge meadow and hundreds of acres of flood plain forest, covering 653 acres in total.

Public Access is provivded from either Blackhawk or Mulford Roads. This 145-acre preserve provides a diversity of recreational opportunities. Includes a 30-acre oak woods listed on the Illinois Natural Area Inventory of notable natural quality. A hiking trail provides access to the woods. Traditional picnic areas and shelters available. Adjacent to State of Illinois' high quality ranked Kishwaukee River.

Public access from S. Perryville Road. A 60-acre tract of mature burr oaks and brush woodlands.

Woodlands; an Illinois Natural Area Inventory site and home to the widest diversity of trees and shrubs in the District. Parking is provided off Rotary Road and hiking and equestrian trails lead through the preserve.